Independent MP Dr Gaurav Sharma has used a rare opportunity to question the Prime Minister in Parliament to ask about ram raids and the safety of New Zealanders.
A specific question about whether security should be prioritised for politicians or everyday New Zealanders led to a reaction from deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson, who could be seen grimacing and shaking his head as Jacinda Ardern responded.
Dr Sharma was kicked out of the Labour Party caucus in August after making a range of unproven allegations against his former colleagues. He said there is a widespread culture of bullying and that the party teaches politicians to circumvent freedom of information laws. Labour has denied all allegations.
Now sitting as an independent MP, Dr Sharma has limited opportunities to ask questions in the House. He had a chance to question the Prime Minister on Wednesday.
"Who does the Prime Minister think deserves to get diplomatic protection and police security? Politicians who are being threatened by disruptive crowds, as mentioned by acting Prime Minister Grant Robertson last week? Or should it be every day New Zealanders who are seeing on average 10 ram raids a week in front of their eyes in broad daylight."
Ardern responded: "Decisions around security for politicians are operational."
As she replied, Robertson can be seen frowning and then shaking his head.
Robertson last week said election campaigns may be run slightly differently next year as politicians increasingly become the target of threats. He also detailed a recent incident where he was the subject of "revolting" abuse from protesters.
"Those experiences are not great and DPS were there to protect me but they can't possibly be there to protect all politicians," he said.
Dr Sharma followed up his question by asking the Prime Minister what her message was to Hamilton businesses who have been ram-raided and are having to pay for repairs out of their own pocket or are facing increased insurance premiums "due to the inability of the Government to bring crime under control".
"Will the Prime Minister and her Government pay for the damages occurring on her watch?" he said.
Ardern responded by highlighting the Government's $6m fund announced in May to pay for barriers outside vulnerable businesses. She said she also welcomed 14 arrests made on Tuesday in relation to recent commercial aggravated robberies.
Dr Sharma stood up and said that didn't "answer the question", but Speaker Adrian Rurawhe said it had been addressed.
Watch the full video above.
